Joliet 04-02-14

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Your Community, Your News

APRIL 2, 2014

Vol. 6 No. 31

local

agriculture

Quinn Proposes ‘Repurposing’ for Illinois Youth Center - Joliet

Governor proposes using IYC – Joliet to house some 300 severely mentally ill prisoners

By Nick Reiher Managing Editor

>> See the full story on page 8

Sharon Konopka of Joliet said she and other former workers at the Illinois Youth Center – Joliet knew something was up even as the fenced- and razor-wirebounded complex was closing early last year.

Konopka, former president of AFSCME Tom Giarrante mayor of joliet Local 1753 at the youth center, said they saw people from the Illinois Department of Human Services measuring all around the complex on West McDonough Street.

After more than a year of reassignment pat quinn at the Sheridan facility, illinois governor >> see repurposing | page 2

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THE BUGLE/SENTINEL APRIL 2, 2014

News

local

Park Board ready to OK video gaming at golf courses If approved, first clubhouse to have video gaming would be at Inwood Golf Course

By Nick Reiher Managing Editor

Trying to raise some revenue and keep competitive with a wealth of area golf courses, the Joliet Park Board will

Golf Course on Jefferson Street in Joliet, said Glenn Marcum, hold a special meeting Joliet Park Board WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, to President.

But install video gaming in the he expects the clubhouses. others to follow If approved, the first Glenn Marcum at Wedgewood clubhouse to have video Joliet Park Board and Woodruff gaming would be at Inwood President “pretty rapidly.”

Marcum said the board has been discussing the issue for about six months.

He said Ted Brodeur, the district’s director of revenue facilities, brought up the issue as a way to draw more adults to the district’s three golf courses … and have them stay longer.

The extra money wouldn’t

“(Ted Brodeur) said one golf course put in video gaming in the off season, and they took in $1,300 in one month,” Marcum said. hurt, either, to a park district struggling to keep up with growth.

“He said one golf course put in video gaming in the off season, and they took in $1,300 in one month,” Marcum said.

The board will vote on an agreement with Donico Gaming LLC for Video Gaming at Inwood, Wedgewood and Woodruff Golf Courses, according to the agenda for the special meeting. Since the three courses have opened for the year, Marcum hopes the

video gaming machines can be in soon.

The state already has approved the Park District’s application, Marcum said, but it could take three weeks to three months before the state gives the final approval.

That includes where the video machine will be placed in each clubhouse. The machines must be in view of the bartender, Marcum said, but far enough away from the pro shop and other places where minors might gather.

News

local

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL APRIL 2, 2014

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Fire officials say gas build-up caused March 24 explosion No one injured in explosion

By Stewart Warren For the Bugle

A build-up of natural gas in the basement of the home at 777 Lambeth caused the March 24 explosion that destroyed the home, Joliet Fire officials said.

Fire Chief Joe Formhals said they still are classifying the cause as “undetermined,” and have turned over the investigation to the insurance company. All appliances have been removed for independent laboratory testing, he said.

No one was hurt in the explosion, which occurred a half hour or so before the children were due home from school.

Kelly Forrest was working at her desk in her home office Monday afternoon when she heard an incredible noise.

It was a loud boom. Her house shook. Her dog hid. And then the booming noise happened again.

“I ran to my deck and saw debris,” Forrest said on Tuesday afternoon, standing in the entryway of her home at 779 Lambeth Lane in Edge Creek Subdivision on Joliet’s far east side near New Lenox.

Although 24 hours had passed, she still seemed a little shaken. “I honestly thought a bomb went off.”

>> repurposing from page 1 Konopka said she received a call March 26 from state Sen. Pat McGuire, D-Joliet, one of the most ardent opponents of the center’s closure.

Although he didn’t mentioned it directly in his budget address, Gov. Pat Quinn wants to repurpose IYC – Joliet to house some 300 severely mentally ill prisoners, McGuire told her,

Looking through her door, she saw a brown couch in her front yard. Later she would notice that one of its cushions was on her roof.

She realized she’d seen the piece of furniture during the weekend – the couch belonged to her nextdoor neighbors, Frank and Natalie Klimala of 777 Lambeth Lane.

“I opened my garage, and their house was engulfed in flames,” Forrest said.

Afraid that her home might be next, Forrest grabbed her dogs, jumped into her car and drove across the street. And then she really began to worry. Was it spring break? Could the Klimala’s children be home from school and in the house?

“Thank God they weren’t home,” Forrest said.

Formhals said when the call came, firefighters were investigating the report of an oven fire at a house on Abe Street, so they weren’t far away.

“It was pretty visible en route.

The crews could see a big black cloud in the sky,” Formhals said.

The firefighters began dousing the blaze. The explosion had shattered a second-floor window in Forrest’s home and melted some of the siding, so a special camera was used to check beneath the dry wall to see if the fire had

spread. It hadn’t, Formhals said.

By Tuesday, the Klimala family outwardly seemed fine, Forrest said. “I think they are in a daze,” she added. The neighbors were rallying around them, bringing clothes and other donations and dropping them off at her house.

That seemed to help.

Anyone who was home Monday afternoon must have heard the blast. Just before the explosion, Gary Beckefeld of 19004 Spring Creek Street in the Edge Creek Subdivision had been doing some housekeeping. He had recently remodeled a bedroom, so he had filled the mattress on his son’s waterbed. When he finished, he

walked downstairs.Then he heard a loud noise.

“I thought the water bed had come through the floor,”Beckefeld said.

His wife looked out their home’s sliding glass doors and saw the smoke. The couple jumped in the car and drove south through their neighborhood to Lambeth Lane.

As they stood across the street watching the fire, they saw a woman run down the street who seemed very upset. It was Natalie Klimala. Their sons played with her children, Beckefeld said.

“There was a lot of noise and commotion going on. Neighbors were coming by and consoling

her,” Beckefeld said. “She was screaming,‘Oh, no! Oh my God!’” Far away from the neighborhood, members of the Klimala family were hearing the news. Barbara Ficner lives in Chicago near Midway Airport, and she is Frank Klimala’s aunt. On Monday afternoon, she was talking on the telephone when she noticed a report about the explosion on the television. When she heard that it happened in Joliet near New Lenox, Ficner thought of her nephew. But she never dreamed that it could be his home.

Then she found out that it was.

She drove to the house on Tuesday afternoon. Firefighters and employees from NICOR were examining the heap of debris that once was a home. There still was a heavy, smoky smell in the air. Although the home was demolished, a trampoline and a pretty gazebo still stood in the backyard. Other workers were installing a fence around the property and posting signs that warned,“Keep out.”

Ficner walked up to the fence to get a better look at the mess.

She hadn’t driven to Joliet to gawk, she said, a tear running down her cheek. The family was gathering that night, just to be together. She wanted to be there, too.

“I just want to give them a hug,” Ficner said. “We are grateful they are alive.”

contingent on the legislature’s approval of his budget and making the temporary 5 percent income tax permanent.

“What a great thing for Joliet,” McGuire said Wednesday.

“My good friend, Pat,” Konopka said. “It’s too bad it still can’t be used for a youth facility. There was so much good that happened there. But this is such good news for Joliet.”

She said they also were

somewhat encouraged state officials didn’t “cannibalize” IYC –Joliet, taking out equipment and classrooms, the way they did with the prison in Dwight.

“They pretty much just locked the gate,” she said.

State Rep. Larry Walsh Jr., D-Elwood, said local and state officials had been working with the governor and various state offices since the facility closed.

The news would be a great thing,

he said, “so we don’t have the same type of eyesore we have with Joliet Correctional Center.”

Joliet Mayor Tom Giarrante was glad to hear the news.

“The Governor’s plan is great news,” he said.“The construction jobs, the 250 to 300 permanent jobs will be great for the city and county. Hopefully the budget will pass with the plan for IYC in it.”

Will County Executive Larry

Walsh, a former state senator, said he doesn’t envy the work legislators now have to work out the details of the governor’s budget. “This is not going to be an easy task at all,” he said.

“And it will take some money to transform it from a youth center to a center for the mentally ill.

But they already had spent a lot of money on renovating … before it was closed. That would have been a shame to waste.”

PHOTO BY STEWART WARREN | for the bugle

Officials erect a fence around what is left of the Klimala home on Joliet’s far east side. The home suddenly exploded Monday, just a half hour or so before the children returned from school.

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THE BUGLE/SENTINEL APRIL 2, 2014

Schools local

Now they’re cooking

Two LTHS chefs named top in state For the first time in Lockport Township High School history, two members of the Culinary Arts Varsity team earned a place in the top six in the state.

Senior Jacob Ray and junior Alexandria Dimitralias earned their top spots at the statewide competition Jacob Ray in March at Kendall College. Alexandria Dimitralias They will now compete in three smaller competitions in national competition in July.

April to determine the top three Varsity team qualifiers who in state, which would earn them competed in the statewide a spot on Team Illinois for the competition include Diego

Bautista, Alexandria Dimitralias, Martha Guerrero, Chyanne Hall and Jacob Ray. Junior Varsity team qualifiers include:Tim Behland, most outstanding in salad demonstration; Alexandria Dimitralias, first place in salad demonstration; Brittany Harmon, most outstanding first in children’s literature, and Jacob Ray, first place in relish tray.

The varsity team competed March 19 at Kendall College, and the junior varsity competes April 11 in Springfield.

Former LTHS student earns diploma 12 years after leaving Thanks to a joint special transition program offered by Joliet Junior College and Lockport Township High School, Crest Hill resident Sadie Roskopf-Dominguez is now a high school graduate.

Dominguez was presented with her LTHS diploma at the Board of Education meeting on March 17.

Her accomplishment was made possible by the high school credit/ early school leavers transition program currently offered at JJC’s Department of Adult Education and Literacy.Through collaboration

with LTHS, Dominguez became the first student to complete the program, which included all the required coursework, credits and community service hours needed to earn a LTHS diploma.

Twelve years ago, Dominguez dropped out of LTHS before completing her coursework. After being inspired by her two young sons, she decided to return to school and complete her high school coursework. Dominguez could have tried to earn a GED but instead chose the longer route of

completing high school and all its requirements.

“One day, my sons asked me if they could stop going to school.

They said since I did not finish, they didn’t know why they had to go,” Dominguez said. “I knew right then that I had to be a better role model for them. I wanted to go back to school and show them it’s never too late, and it’s the right thing to do.Without a high school diploma, it is very hard to earn a good living or motivate your children to go to school.”

News

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL APRIL 2, 2014

couNty NewS

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Will again among state’s healthiest counties According to MATCH, Will County ranks 25th best among 102 Illinois counties surveyed in terms of health outcomes An ongoing grant-funded study released March 26, ranks Will County among Illinois’ healthiest counties for the fifth consecutive year.

The study, called Mobilizing Action Toward Community Health (MATCH), uses data sets collected from numerous sources to rank the health of each Illinois county.

The University of Wisconsin’s Population Health Institute authored the MATCH project with the help of funding provided by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.

According to MATCH, Will County ranks 25th best among 102 Illinois counties surveyed in terms of health outcomes, and 25th best in health factors.

The health outcomes ranking is based on an equal weighting of morbidity and mortality measures that influence the length and quality of life. The health factors ranking is derived from an examination of numerous health behaviors, access to clinical care, the quality of clinical care, and physical environment. Social and economic factors were also

considered.

“The MATCH project provides us with a valuable point in time snapshot of Will County’s overall health,” according to Will County Health Department Executive Director John Cicero.“It illustrates that community health is shaped by a wide variety of factors beyond what occurs at our doctor’s office, hospital, or health clinic. Everyone plays a role in community health: educators, business leaders, hospitals, the faith community, elected officials – everyone has some key role to play in order to make the community a healthy place to live and work.”

Will is one of seven Chicagoland counties listed among the state’s healthiest jurisdictions. Cicero says public health administrators can utilize data from the health rankings to identify problems and address the most critical health priorities using measurable objectives.

“Every community can point to specific strengths and weaknesses that ultimately influence health,” Cicero said. “The information

contained in studies of this magnitude can help shape the formation of community partnerships that develop strategies capable of addressing priority health objectives.”

The release of the 2014 MATCH study was timed to coincide with National Public Health Week.

Since 1995, the public health community has celebrated NPHW during the first week each April to draw attention to the need for enhanced public health awareness and funding.

“We hope NPHW helps educate area residents about ways they can all live healthier lives, prevent illness, and navigate the everchanging world of public health,” Cicero added. “We can all take simple steps to avoid preventable illness and live healthier.”

NPHW 2014 helps to focus attention on the Affordable Care Act (ACA).

“Healthy lives begin with prevention,” Cicero concluded.

“Even small changes we make today can have a big impact on our health for the rest of our lives.”

For more information about MATCH, visit www. countyhealthrankings.org.

For more information about National Public Health Week, visit www. nphw.org.

health outcomes

health Factors

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Woodford

dupage

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Kendall

Woodford

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dupage

Kendall

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schuyler

monroe

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Jo davless

mclean

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pike

piatt

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douglas

lake

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brown

mchenry

9 Kane 10 deKalb 11 mcdonough

Tazewell effingham

12 clinton

champaign

13 lake 14 mchenry

clinton

15 mercer 16 henry 17 Whiteside 18 boone 19 shelby 20 calhoun 21 piatt 22 effingham 23 champaign 24 ogle 25 Will 26 hancock

brown

Jo davless menard adams henry Jersey Washington edwards Kane sangamon marshall ogle Will deKalb

27 Tazewell 28 monroe 29 menard

mcdonough

30 henderson

moultrie

rock island stark

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THE BUGLE/SENTINEL APRIL 2, 2014

Police Blotter 7

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Mark A. Thomas, 30, 400 Nobes Ave., Lockport, was arrested at 4:38 p.m. March 21 at 1415 Fairmount for lewd conduct.

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Isaiah A. Hughes, 18, 1540 Centennial Drive, was arrested at 11:51 p.m. March 21 at 1000 Lois for possession of alcohol by minor.

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Emma A. Torres, 65, 503 S. May St., was arrested at 4:55 p.m. March 21 at that address for dog running at large.

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Lennie A. Williams, 35, 411 Oneida St., was arrested at 9:50 a.m. March 21 at 14 W. Jefferson for two counts of violation of order of protection.

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Edward T. West, 24, 2110 Primrose Drive, Plainfield, was arrested at 2:58 a.m. March 21 at 2500 NW Frontage for Driving under the influence – alcohol and driving under the influence – BAC over .08.

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Joliet

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The following items were compiled from the official reports of the Joliet Police Department. Appearing in the police blotter does not constitute a finding of guilt, only a court of law can make that determination.

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Savitra R. Porter, 26, 1303 Fairview Ave., was arrested at 8:32 a.m. March 21 at 207 Sheridan for filing a false police report.

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Christopher Z. Maka, 18, 3902 Cherry Tree Court, was arrested at 5:34 p.m.

March 21 at 2602 Lakeridge for residential burglary and possession of cannabis. Aidan M. Pino, 18, 1974 W. Brimstone Road, Romeoville, and a 17-yearold were arrested at 5:34 p.m.

March 21 at 2602 Lakeridge for residential burglary.A 16-year-old also was arrested for residential burglary and possession of a controlled substance.

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Hill, was arrested at 6:29 a.m.

March 23 at 474 Springwood for domestic battery.

Donald W. Carter, 24, 10057 S. Hill Terrace, Palos Hills, was arrested at 3:50 p.m. March 23 at 1801 W. Jefferson for retail theft and on an out of town warrant.

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Luis F. Vega, 41, 7317 Southworth Circle, Plainfield, was arrested at 7:06 p.m. March 23 at Theodore and Legacy Pointe for driving under the influence – alcohol and possession of cannabis.

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D. Wright, 37, 515 S. 14 Corey Desplaines, was arrested at 7:53 p.m. March 23 at that address for aggravated assault.

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Ryan L. Furguiele, 31, 3820 Adesso Lane, was arrested at 9:20 p.m. March 23 at that address for aggravated domestic battery.

Jacob J.Ellis,25,21923 S.Burr Ridge Drive, Shorewood, was arrested at 5:44 a.m. March 22 at 8510 Foxborough for domestic battery.

Francisco Estrada, 26, 808 Meeker,was arrested at 6:32 p.m. March 22 at that address for dog running at large.

Heather A. Schwartz, 24, 281 Lorraine,Bloomingdale, was arrested at 1:24 a.m. March 23 at Cass and Arch for driving under the influence – alcohol and possession of drug equipment.

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Randy V. Doby, 40, 1324 Cedarwood Drive, Crest

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Terrence D. Tucker, 43, 501 Campbell, was arrested at 1:35 a.m. March 23 at 832 Plainfield for domestic battery and criminal damage to property.

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Gabriel Aguirre, 19, 659 Meeker,was arrested at 5:43 p.m. March 24 at 664 Meeker for dogs running at large.

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Shantwon A. Neal, 23, 3417 Hickory, Hazel Crest, was arrested at 4:41 a.m. March 24 at 333 Madison for reckless discharge of a firearm and defacing identification mark of firearm.

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Kevin G. Watkins, 52, 205 Notre Dame, was arrested at 3:56 a.m. March 24 at 379 S. Chicago for theft of services, possession of drug equipment, obstructing identification and on three Will County warrants.

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Christopher C. Hernandez, 21, 120 Luana, was arrested at 4:56 a.m. March 24 at 151 N. Joliet for theft.

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Keith T.P. Crist, 19, 804 Cornell Court, Shorewood, was arrested at 4:31 p.m.

March 24 at 1125 N. Larkin for obstructing a peace officer.

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George W. Grant, 18, 263 S. Center, was arrested at 4:14 p.m. March 24 at that address for obstructing a peace officer.

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A 14-year-old was arrested at 4:42 p.m. March 24 at 1426 Fairmount for domestic battery.

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Darvez L. Parrott, 24, 901 Lois Place was arrested at 12:33 a.m. March 24 at 1861 Black for possession of cannabis.

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Byron T. Davis, 29, 408 White, was arrested at 7:01 p.m. March 25 at 4 Blackman on two will county warrants and later for possession of cannabis.

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For more Joliet Police Blotter, visit www.buglenewspapers.com

Shorewood A 16-year-old was arrested at Buckingham Court and Buckingham Place for reckless driving on March 26 after officers responded to a report of a vehicle driving through a yard.

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Matthew M. Corcoran, 30, 504 Shorewood Drive, Shorewood, was arrested March 20 for obstructing justice, driving without headlights, driving while license revoked and no insurance at 900 Brookforest Ave. Corcoran also was arrested driving a mini bike with no lights.

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Omar J. Vazquez, 21, 106 E. Jefferson St., Shorewood, arrested on a Will County warrant for driving under the influence at a safety check point at 251 Brookforest Ave.

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Marcus J. Harper, 4424 Riverside Drive, Plainfield, arrested for driving while license suspended, illegal parking and driving without headlights at 1002 W. Jefferson St.

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Forum Post your thoughts!

gueSt coluMN

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL APRIL 2, 2014

OUR HOUSE

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WiTh rep. naTalie manley (d-JolieT) 98Th disTricT

Manley offers peek into Committee process WEB It was a hectic week in process also includes working LINKS

correctioN A March 26 column in the Joliet Bugle by Managing Editor Nick Reiher incorrectly listed the number of Will County Board members.There are 13 Democrats and 13 Republicans.

The Bugle regrets the error.

General Manager V.P. Advertising and Marketing Michael James mjames@voyagermediaonline.com Managing Editor Nick Reiher nreiher@buglenewspapers.com 815-436-2431 ext. 117 Assistant Managing Editor Jonathan Samples jsamples@buglenewspapers.com Reporters Jonathan Samples Alex Hernandez Laura Katauskas Sports Editor Scott Taylor staylor@buglenewspapers.com Advertising Manager Pat Ryan pryan@enterprisepublications.com

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Production Director Andrew Samaan andrew@buglenewspapers.com Enterprise Newspapers, Inc. 23856 Andrew Road #104 Plainfield, IL 60585 (815) 436-2431 • Fax (815) 436-2592 Mon. - Fri. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m Editorial Deadlines Calendar & News: 3 p.m. Monday, three weeks before date of publication sweditor@buglenewspapers.com www.buglenewspapers.com Ad Deadlines Space and Copy deadlines for Display and Classified Ads is 12 p.m.

Friday before date of insertion. classifieds@buglenewspapers.com Legals, Obituaries and Happy Ads are due at 12 p.m. Friday. announcements@buglenewspapers.com

Springfield, as March 28th was with those who support the the deadline for House bills to bill, and often times that is done move out of committee. with the individuals House bills are first or groups who have assigned to “Rules” brought the original committee, to be idea to the legislator. reviewed by several In many cases, senior, high-ranking there is opposition members from both to the bill … for parties. Those members varying reasons. decide if the bill should So, included in the move forward, and if so, committee process, they then determine is the opportunity rep. naTalie manley to which of 46 House (d-joliet) 98tH to work with all committees, it should be district those in favor and assigned (then perhaps all those opposed, a subcommittee – more and to responsibly on that later). Once in committee, compromise and tweak the there is an opportunity for language to make the original testimony, either in favor or in bill even better. All concerned opposition, debate ensues, and individuals can attend the then finally votes are cast by committee hearings to voice their committee members on whether opinions about the bill. Those the bill is worth consideration by in support give your measure the entire House floor. more validity and increase the So the week prior to the likelihood that the bill will pass. deadline, everyone was Unfortunately, no matter how scrambling to try and move much “give and take” might his or her bills forward, lest occur, there are those times that their legislation be stranded in no amount of compromise gets committee for the entire year. everyone on the same page.

This week has seen additional If there is strong opposition, committee hearings at all hours of and the middle ground on the the day and night, and extended issue seems miles apart, even committee hours. after numerous meetings and The committee process can conversations, and it still seems be complicated and frustrating. like both sides have dug their It includes meeting with each heels in and are not budging … member of the committee to this is when you realize that it explain why a particular bill is will be up to the committee to important, and rallying support decide the fate of the impending for the cause. The committee legislation.

have a question or comment about this column?

Feel free to send us an email at nmanley@buglenewspapers.com

Even with strong opposition, a legislator can still “work the bill” and get it passed. Most of that work to get other legislators on board (rallying support, explaining merits, answering questions) happens on the House floor every day.

A few others nuances regarding the “red-tape” involved with the committee process that I have observed as a freshman legislator: (1) the committee chairperson has total discretion and is not required to call your bill. Nothing happens automatically. A good chairperson will, however, explain the reasons the bill is not being called and offer to work with you in the future. (2) You may re-file your bill again during another session and hope the chairperson might be more willing to entertain the subject matter at that time. So, the bill may live to fight another day. (3) Sometimes the bill gets sent to a subcommittee (unfortunately,this is most often a place where your bill goes to die … very few bills make it out once they get there) and (4) That dreaded ambush of opposition … sometimes the opposition doesn’t appear until >> see our house | page 18

letter to the eDitor

Senger’s record also includes…

‘Senger is a right-wing, social conservative who was handpicked by the national Republican Party’ Laura Katauskas’ article in the March 27 publication mentions what state Rep. Senger did for the state.

The reporter forgot to mention a few things that Senger also did, such as she voted against a woman’s right to choose, against marriage equality, against common sense reforms to prevent gun violence

and she repeatedly introduced anti-Obamacare legislation in Springfield.

She said her focus is to repeal Obamacare. Tell me what happens to the millions of Americans that have signed up for the Affordable Care Act? Senger hasn’t said what she would do for those Americas.

Illinois state Rep. Senger is a

right-wing, social conservative who was handpicked by the national Republican Party.

The article mentions that U.S. Rep. Foster was a rubber stamp when it came to voting. One of the toughest things for Foster, while serving in the U.S. House, is sitting through the relentless barrage of illogical talking points from the Republican majority.

Thank you, Richard Oswald Plainfield

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THE BUGLE/SENTINEL APRIL 2, 2014

News WILL COUNTY

Ag Secretary Vilsack sees Will County’s operation first-hand

By Nick Reiher Managing Editor

Will County farm officials long have said the agricultural community is under-appreciated.

U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack told them March 28 that’s true throughout the nation.

“Very few people realize the importance of agriculture,” Vilsack said to a crowd in a chilly truck garage at the DeLong Co. in the Joliet CenterPointe Logistics Center. “But it represents 5 percent of our Gross Domestic Product. One-twelfth of the jobs in the nation are connected in some way to agriculture and food processing.”Those workers make goods accessible and affordable for the entire nation, he said, something not a lot of other countries can say.

Vilsack also noted agricultural exports are at a record high, setting a new record in calendar year 2013 at $144.1 billion. Last year, Illinois shipped $8.3 billion in agricultural products overseas.

And he got an earful from Will County agricultural and business leaders Friday on just how much the area is responsible for that.

“We wanted him to know the cooperation between corporate and business leaders and agriculture is how Will County has become the largest inland port in North America,” said Will County Executive Larry Walsh, who helped bring Vilsack to Will County for the March 28 meeting.

As an example, The DeLong Co., which ships grain and ethanol byproducts worldwide, is part of one of a growing number of intermodal centers in the county that make Will County the largest inland port in North America. DeLong buys DDGs from ethanol plants and grain from farms throughout the Midwest and resells to companies and countries abroad.

Vilsack said he could see on the way in to Will County Friday morning the trucks coming in to DeLong filled with dried distillers grain (DDGs) coming from various Ethanol plants. The biofuel derivative, stripped of all its sugars, is a highly coveted, high protein source for livestock feed. What DeLong and other

PHOTO BY NICK REIHER/MANAGING EDITOR

U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack speaks to a crowd at the DeLong Co. in Joliet March 28, as, from left, Brandon DeLong, logistics manager at the Joliet plant, and Robert Flider, Illinois Agriculture Director, look on.

companies get in on trucks, they ship out on the intermodal’s trains. China is a big importer, Vilsack noted. And Walsh later added Will County, with its inland port, is “setting the bar as far as prices for the DDGs.” Vilsack said he hopes to spread the word about biofuels and DDGs now that the new Farm Bill finally was passed and signed. The United States has done some marketing overseas

“We’ve been working with the Illinois Corn Marketing Board on this,” Schneidewind said.“While nothing has been finalized, it would fit perfectly into Secretary Vilsack’s plans.” on its biofuels and byproducts, he said, but it’s time to do more, possibly to Japan and India.

That’s true internally, as well, Vilsack said. Fuel companies often make it difficult to find E-85 blends. But he would like to work with them to offer more E-85, as well as lower blends that more vehicles can use.

To that end, the Will County Farm Bureau has been working with local gas station companies to see about the possibility of offering E-15 as another alternative for consumers, said Mark Schneidewind, Will County Farm Bureau manager, who attended an earlier meeting

with Vilsack.

“We’ve been working with the Illinois Corn Marketing Board on this,” Schneidewind said later. “While nothing has been finalized, it would fit perfectly into Secretary Vilsack’s plans.”

With a federal budget and a Farm Bill approved, Vilsack said there’s only one other major issue to solve that would be critical for the agricultural community.

“The only thing we need now is immigration reform,” he said. “If we had that, we would be able to provide a stable and secure workforce.”

During his speech, Vilsack noted agriculture is about partnerships. Glenn Ginder of Peotone, vice president of the Will County Farm Bureau and a Director on the Illinois Corn Marketing Board, gave Vilsack a pin from the Illinois Board.

“This is hard for a guy from Iowa to wear,” Vilsack quipped, “but I’m showing my support.”

Following the speech, John Greuling, president and CEO of the Will County Center for Economic Development, said Vilsack’s visit was a “great day for Will County … the heartland of logistics and agribusiness.”

Greuling said he was somewhat surprised by Vilsack’s focus on bio-fuels and also that the USDA has an economic development component that works with improving infrastructure. He said there are other USDA programs Will County isn’t using, “but I think we should.”

Joliet Chamber

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THE BUGLE/SENTINEL APRIL 2, 2014

9

column

Success of Expo 2014 Editor’s Note: The Joliet Bugle is working with the Joliet Region Chamber of Commerce & Industry this year on promoting the chamber’s 100th Anniversary.

Expo 2014 took place over the weekend of February 21 and 22 at the Louis Joliet Mall, with over 70 companies and organizations exhibiting on one or both days.

These various companies and organizations were able to display their products and services to more than 20,000 mall visitors over the two-day period. Special thanks go out to the major sponsors of the Expo: Presence Saint Joseph Medical Center and Silver Cross Hospital.

In addition the following sponsors were an integral part of the two day show: Advanced Family Dental & Orthodontics; Joliet Junior College; NuMark Credit Union; The Herald News; The Parc at Joliet;Vitas Innovative Hospice Care;and the University of St. Francis. In addition to the many great sponsors, the Chamber also counts on numerous volunteers to aid the staff in making sure that the Expo runs smoothly and that the exhibitors are well taken

care of.

For over 15 years now, that Chamber has been happy to call the mall home for this event. The built in traffic and the ability to market products and services to a wide variety of potential customers and clients is a major draw with the exhibitors. The Chamber opens registration every year in October so that exhibitors can get in early and even choose their own location.

Many companies have been participating for multiple years and find the two day show to be a tremendous lead generator.

The Expo marks the first major event of the year and for the past two years now, the Chamber has put together a YouTube video displaying pictures and interviews from the exhibitors. You can view these and other video on the Chamber Channel at www. youtube.com/jolietchamber.

As the first quarter ends, many quality programs and events will be coming up on the calendar.

In April the Chamber Education committee will honor the top 25 graduates at Joliet Central, Joliet West and Joliet Catholic Academy with a dinner at the Holiday Inn. Also in April, the same

Education Committee will feature a Young Entrepreneur Expo at the University of St. Francis Pat Sullivan Rec Center displaying the projects that area grade 6 to 8 students have worked on over the past few months with a mentor from the business community.

Refer to www.jolietchamber. com for the full Chamber calendar of events. On May 13, a contingent of Chamber representatives will travel down to Springfield for a legislative day with local elected officials as well as leaders of both the State Senate and House of Representatives.

Then in June, the Chamber will present the 3rd Annual New Orleans North event in downtown Joliet right on Chicago Street.

Mark your calendar for Friday the 13th of June for the fun and excitement of live music, food and beverages!

The second quarter of 2014, this 100 Year anniversary of the Chamber, looks to be just as busy as the first!

Mike Paone Director Member Services Joliet Region Chamber of Commerce & Industry

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Cheri Johnson and Mallory Hewlett welcome visitors to the Will County State’s Attorney’s booth at the Joliet Chamber’s 2014 Biz Expo.

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Chitra Macon represented her business, among the more than 70 companies and organizations at Expo 2014, the annual affair at Louis Joliet Mall sponsored by the Joliet Region Chamber of Commerce & Industry. The Chamber is celebrating its 100th year.

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Take 5

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL APRIL 2, 2014

Crossword Puzzle

Across 1 Piece of fruit?

8 Time capsule ceremonies 15 Barhopping 16 Awkward at gatherings, say 17 Big oaf 18 “I need an answer now!”

19 __-Locka, Florida 20 Shortens again, as a board 22 Medieval fight club?

23 Move, briefly 25 Frozen Four org.

26 Pequod coowner 27 Give up a seat 29 Pianist Schnabel 31 Ivy League nickname 32 Wild West 34 Prefix with -syllabic 35 NBAer Artest who changed his name to Metta World Peace 36 Youngest male

Down tennis player to be No. 1 in the ATP Rankings 40 Guy 41 Short remnant 42 Cagy 43 Battle of Shiloh monogram 44 Erect 46 Bollywood garments 50 Bedroom label 52 Some brothers 54 Having a single channel 55 NYC train, familiarly 56 Historic events 58 16th-century date 59 Certain tie 61 “Now, listen ...”

63 As good as it gets 64 All-purpose 65 Covent Garden locale 66 Fuddy-duddy

1 Deep sleeps 2 Hot under the collar 3 Syllables sometimes said with one’s fingers in one’s ears 4 1940s arena: Abbr.

5 Queen who is also a humanitarian activist 6 Keepsake 7 Mississippi source 8 Show known for its slow-motion shots 9 Capitalizes on 10 Sigur __: ethereal Icelandic band 11 “Where __ from ...”

12 Wartime signal 13 Loyal friend of Gawain 14 Alabama Slammer ingredient 21 Duel personality?

24 Words someone 15-Across loves to hear

26 Hunts 28 Mani-pedi spot 30 Rugged vehicles 33 Incredulous accusation 36 Stop looking for a rescue plane 37 Recliner features 38 Where most hits wind up 39 Start of Popeye’s credo 40 Seconds ago 45 Turn a corner, in a game 47 The Joker portrayer 48 Like comic Eddie Izzard, at times 49 Alone 51 Unspoken 53 Symbol of strength 56 “Happily Divorced” actress Drescher 57 Cellphone button 60 Cockney abode 62 Mag mogul

Horoscopes Today’s New Moon falls in your sign and indicates the start of several weeks during which you’re more cognizant of what’s really important to you and brings happiness. Do what gives you joy to be successful.

Resistance to change is futile. You tend to hold onto the old as long as it’s viable and only reach out for the new when it’s inevitable. You have a tendency to spend freely in the upcoming week, but it’s all for fun.

Some changes are for the better. New acquaintances might sweep into your life like a breath of fresh air and alter your perceptions in the week ahead. As part of the global community everyone you meet is related in some way.

The proof is in the pudding. Major changes may bring the prospect of big rewards in the week ahead, but could cause unexpected consequences, too. Ensure that the results of a desired change are worth the trouble.

Tense circumstances require tender loving care. The week ahead might present several challenging situations. Keep your cool and don’t go off halfcocked. The new lunar cycle might offer a chance to entertain unusual ideas.

Train an educated eye on ways to increase your net worth. Finances might be affected by social or government changes in the week ahead. As things break down, you might be able to pick up the leavings.

Gridlock might lock you out. The New Moon falls in your solar house of partnerships, so relationships might be of interest during the next several weeks. Tensions that begin to build now might last several weeks.

Deal with little criticisms or mistakes that crop up before beginning something new. A wave of enthusiasm might tempt you to make large expenditures, but this is not a good week to initiate major purchases or changes.

Starting something new this week might seem like an uphill climb. It’s a far better idea to contend with existing situations and keep your money in your pocket. Be prepared for unexpected bills or cash outlays.

A bad case of media frenzy might grab your attention in the week ahead. Move forward with business as usual and don’t get caught up in political situations.

Avoid starting key projects or making crucial decisions.

Affection, not perfection, matters. In the week to come, you’re better off working side by side with others than trying to go it alone. When you notice someone’s faults, remember that nobody is perfect.

Focus on your future in the week ahead. Take a vacation from mass production by eating more food that grows naturally on fewer highly processed products.

Grow healthy, wealthy and wise.

Sudoku

Jumble

Tribune Content Agency 2014

Previous puzzle’s answers

Previous puzzle’s answers

Previous puzzle’s answers

Jumbles: • NAIVE • COVEY • SWIVEL • APPEAR

Answer:

What the sailor with the noisy bunkmate wanted when the ship docked -- “SNORE” LEAVE

INSIDE: WJOL Don Ladas Invite this weekend, page 12; Benet center Sean O’Mara is Voyager Player of the Year, page 14

buglenewspapers.com

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL APRIL 2, 2014

11

Final Four Flashback: Kenny Battle JCA girls basketball coach reflects on his run with Illinois 25 years ago

By Mark Gregory Sports Reporter

As the NCAA tournament comes and goes year after year, the teams are filled more and more with oneand-done freshmen who are in college simply because the NBA rules say they can’t turn pro until a year out of high school.

That was not always the case.

In the past, players stayed in college for a few years and the goals were more about winning than cashing in for a big contract.

This season is the 25th anniversary of the 1989 University of Illinois Fighting Illini basketball team which advanced to the Final Four, one of those teams that played for the team pride and a passion to win.

The Flyin’ Illini, as the team was dubbed by broadcaster Dick Vitale, was a team made up of almost all in-state products that reached the Final Four and were one basket away from playing for the National Championship.

A captain on that team was Kenny Battle,aWestAurora product who transferred to Illinois after spending two seasons at Northern Illinois University. Now he is an assistant coach with the Joliet Catholic Academy girls basketball team, where his daughter was a starting freshman for the Class 3A state runners up. Battle took a look back at 25 years after advancing to the Final Four.

“We had an opportunity to win the national championship and to know that you were one of four teams that were still playing that late in the season showed that the hard work and dedication that you put forth paid off,” Battle said.

“That is an experience that not a

lot of guys or a lot of teams get the opportunity to experience.”

Illinois faced Big Ten opponent Michigan in Seattle in the semifinal and the Wolverines upset the Illini 83-81 on a last-second shot by Sean Higgins.

“We didn’t care that we were playing a conference opponent,” Battle said. “We had an opponent and we were prepared to play whoever it was and we had a great setting in Seattle and we had an opportunity to win a national championship. It didn’t happen for us, but we had every opportunity.”

Michigan won the title that year, defeating Seaton Hall 80-79 in overtime.

“It made it better (that the Illini lost to the eventual champion), but it till didn’t make us feel any better,” Battle said. “We wanted to be the ones hoisting that trophy at the end of the year.”

That year’s Final Four is often considered one of the most entertaining of all time.

“Everywhere we go, people always remember that game and talk about that game,” Battle said.“It was really great to be part of that special team from the University of Illinois.We will always be part of the Flyin’ Illini.”

Battle said although all the former players are busy, they try to reminisce as much as possible.

“Everybody has a lot going on, but any time we get together, we make the best of it,” Battle said. “I stay in touch with all of them. It was a special team. Larry Smith and I were in St. Louis together at an AAU tournament for my seventh grader and we were able to reminisce and talk about the future of Illinois basketball.”

Other than advancing to the

Mark gregory/Bugle Staff

Former University of Illinois standout Kenny Battle is now a coach on the Joliet Catholic Academy girls basketball staff. (Right) Battle in 1989 with Illinois.

Final Four, the Flyin’ Illini team had another rarity trait that may never be duplicated in major conference basketball.

Four of the five starters and the first man off the bench were all Chicagoland products who all played in at least one IHSA state tournament. The fifth starter, Steven Bardo, was from downstate Alton and all but one of the 15man roster played high school basketball in the state of Illinois.

Battle ledAuroraWest High School to third place in 1984, Kendall Gill paced Rich Central to a secondplace finish in 1986, Lowell Hamilton led Providence-St. Mel to a third-place finish in 1984 and a Class A title in 1985, while Marcus Liberty led King to a title in 1986 and a second-place finish in 1987. >> see baTTle | page 15

Courtesy of un

iversity of Illinois

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THE BUGLE/SENTINEL APRIL 2, 2014

Sports

WJOL’s Don Ladas invite kicks off this weekend

By Mark Gregory Sports Reporter

While the weather sure hasn’t made the transition an easy one, it is indeed the time again for the annual WJOL baseball tournament. This season, the tournament has been renamed as the WJOL Don Ladas Memorial Tournament in honor of the longtime voice of Will County sports who died earlier this year.

“It was a great idea to name it the Don Ladas Memorial Tournament,” said Joliet Central coach Antonio Juarez. “I think it was (Joliet Catholic coach) Jared Voss’ idea to name it after Don for all the hard work he put in over the years.”

The tournament this season will open Thursday, April 3 with a scheduled off day on Friday and then resume Saturday with morning games for all teams and then the seventh, fifth, third and first-place games starting at

12:15 at Silver Cross Field.

Locally, Joliet Central will open on the road at Minooka Thursday.

The Steelmen, who like most teams, had their first six games cancelled because of the weather, are looking for a good showing in the tournament.

Central returns its top two senior arms from last season and overall the top five pitchers from last year are back to pace the club.

Right hander Zach Goetschel and lefty Troy Carlson will lead the senior-laden staff.

Junior Kiryn Coleman will help the staff as he takes over at catcher.

The Steelmen return their entire outfield, which includes Goetschel,centerfielder Christian Smith and Amdrew Mireles.

Carlson will play first base when he is not on the hill.

The Indians are bringing back some starters of their own,

including Illinois State University recruit Mitch Vogrin on the mound. He will be joined on the hill by returners Mitch Malone, Joe Butler, Tyler Paulsen and Trevor Maly.

Helping the staff will be returning senior catcher Tyler Desmarais.

When not pitching, Butler, a sophomore, will see time at third base, solidifying the left side of the infield with shortstop Neal Tyrell, a Lewis University commit.

Plainfield Central will also travel to Providence for a 4:30 p.m. game Thursday, while Lockport will host a pair of games, with Plainfield South and Joliet Catholic Academy playing at 4:30 p.m. and Lockport and Joliet West at 7 p.m.

At Providence, the Wildcats look to get past the Celtics who feature one of the state’s >> see WJOL | page 13

Sports >> WJOL, from page 12 top prospects in pitcher Jake Godfrey, who leads a staff that also includes Kent State recruit Dylan Rosa.

At Lockport, the Hillmen are coming off a Class 3A state championship and have several key players returning this season.

Leading the returners is junior Nick Dalesandro. The Purdue commit pitched the title game a year ago and when not on the hill he is a staple in the JCA outfield.

Joining Dalesandro on the bump will be Kyle Polaski, who is headed to Palm Beach Atlantic, Keegan Tyrell and sophomore Vanderbilt recruit Drake Fellows.

Mitch Boe is expected to move from second base to shortstop this season, with Xavier-bound Rylan Bannon taking the job at

second, while Aaron Markley returns at first base.

The Cougars also return some of the area’s top pitching staffs, led by Iowa-bound junior Shane Ritter, senior Ball State recruit Trevor Henderson and senior Ryan McQueen.

Zach Hammaker and Marco Melgoza look to replace some of the offense lost by the graduation of John McNulty and Victor Garcia, two of last season’s top bats.

The night game at Lockport’s Ed Flink Field will feature the host Porters and Joliet West.

Lockport is one of the few teams to have played early in the season as it went 2-2 in the Southern Illinois Miners Showcase. The Porters defeated Warren 5-3 and Wauconda 11-0 and fell to Harrisburg 2-1 and Mundelein 4-1.

Tyler Hair, Russ Hoh and Ryan

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL APRIL 2, 2014

13

Mark Gregory/Bugle Staff

JCA’s Nick Dalesandro returns after pitching in the Class 3A state title game last season.

Dalton paced the Porter offense in the tournament.

Noah Masa, a UIC recruit, and Concordia commit Mike Formella will lead the Lockport pitching staff this season.

The Porters will get a look at Joliet West, SWSC co-champs from a year ago.

The Tigers bring back Chicago State-bound outfielder and pitcher Zack Thomas along with lead-off man Cody Grosse and clean-up hitter Matt Ramirez at first base.

They will be joined by pitcher/ third baseman Griffin McGuire, Judson-bound catcher Chad

Benavides: C/inf, Judson bound, solid arm defense and good bat and pitcher/outfielder Robert Talarico.

Mark Zelinski returns from injury and loos to anchor the pitching staff.

Follow @Hear_The_Beard mark@buglenewspapers.com

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THE BUGLE/SENTINEL APRIL 2, 2014

Sports

Benet’s O’Mara is Voyager Media Player of the Year

By Scott Taylor Sports Editor

Last year Benet’s Sean O’Mara was a first team Voyager Media Publications All-Area selection in helping the Redwings advance to a sectional final.

This year he took his game to the next level.

The 6-foot, 9-inch senior averaged 23 points and 13 rebounds and shot better than 60 percent from the field for Benet.

For his accomplishments, O’Mara has been named the 2014 Voyager Media Publications Boys Basketball Player of the Year.

“I’ve been working all summer and on our off days,” O’Mara said.“I’ve been trying to get away from my junior habit. I watched a lot of film on myself and I would step and fade away and take jumpers. I’m 6-9, I shouldn’t be taking jumpers, especially when I can get to the bucket like I can. That has been the focus for me this year.”

“He has great feet and great hands and he really understands how to play,” Benet coach Gene Heidcamp said. “He has really been a dominant player on the high school level. His game has improved every year, but this year he has been dominant from his ability to score and >> see ALL-AREA | page 15

Mark Gregory/Bugle Staff

Sean O’Mara led Benet to the state title game and is the Voyager Media Player of the Year.

Sports >> ALL-AREA, from page 14 pass the ball.”

O’Mara showed solid athleticism throughout the year, running the court well for a fast-paced offense.

“My teammates do a great job of pushing the ball up the floor and getting the ball to me,” O’Mara said. “I have to make it count and take it strong to the hoop. It is nice to increase your shot percentage when you are dunking the ball.”

“Offensively he has had an unbelievable year,” Heidcamp said. “He is shooing in the 60 percent and he just a dominant low post player. Not only scoring but also his ability to draw attention and pass out of it and free up our shooters makes us difficult to defend.

“He is very unselfish. He is not just a big kid. He is a big kid with a skill set and understands how to play. He has good hands and good feet and add unselfish to that and that makes a really good player.”

He is continuing his playing career at Xavier University in Cincinnati, OH, where he signed to play at earlier this year.

“It was phenomenal,” O’Mara said of signing with the Musketeers.“It was a great day in my memory. It’s hard to explain.

The process is kind of draining and you build relationships with a lot of people. Being able to sign with Xavier helped me to focus on this season and to go as far as we can.”

O’Mara’s hard work has paid off so far, and now he hopes it pays off at the next level.

“It is great to have the opportunity to play at the next level,” O’Mara said.“It helps with all the hard work I’ve put in and my coaches and teammates have put in with me at practice.

You can’t take it for granted, you have to keep working. You >> BATTLE, from page 11 Both Battle and Liberty were named as one of the 100 Legends of the IHSA Boys Basketball Tournament announced in 2007.

“You had guys all from the state of Illinois, all were either Mr. Basketball or were in contention for Mr. Basketball, all were the best player on their high school team, all had high accolades all had an opportunity to compete in the state tournament,” Battle said. “We all had the opportunity to come together and make it to the Final Four.”

Follow @Hear_The_Beard mark@buglenewspapers.com

have to prepare yourself for the next level as well. I’m working on things you might not see at the games, but hopefully you will see it next year.”

The rest of the Voyager Media Publications All-Area first team are:

AARON JORDAN A verbal commit to the University of Illinois, Jordan led Plainfield East with 18.8 points and 4.2 rebounds.

The junior also shot 84 percent from the foul line, made 43 steals and 59 three pointers.

“When teams scout us, they realize they have to limit him as much as possible,” Plainfield East coach Branden Adkins said. “In the offseason he needs to keep getting stronger and become a more dynamic player. He can take guys off the dribble and has the pull-up jumper. He is close to eclipse the 1,000-point mark. He did a lot of great things for us this year.”

PRENTISS NIXON J u n i o r g u a r d averaged 17 points, three rebounds and three assists for Bolingbrook.

“Prentiss is known for his scoring, but he brings so much more to the table,” Bolingbrook coach Rob Brost said. “He defends well, can handle it, his motor never stops, and he is coachable. The best part is that I know he will continue to work extremely hard to take his

game to an even higher level.

He has 10-12 D-I scholarship offers.”

GEORGE SARGEANT The 6-7 junior, who’s also a wide receiver for the Maine South football team, has become one of the area’s top big men this season. He led the Hawks in both scoring (17.1 points per game) and rebounding (6.9) this winter.

“He’s kind of taken that role where we’ve always have that post player who’s dominant,” Maine South coach Tony Lavorato said. “He’s really talented and he’s still scratching the surface. He’s got a huge upside.”

TREVOR STUMPE T h e Plainfield North junior filled the stat sheet for the Tigers this year. He averaged 23.3 points, six rebounds, 2.8 assists, 1.9 steals and .83 blocks per game.

“Trevor is a player that does everything for our team,” Plainfield North coach Robert Krahulik said. “He led us in every statistic except assists. He had several big games that he kept us in games or took over the game for us. He is a player that can go either way on the drive, and is a great finisher with his left hand. He also is a great shooter who is able to create his own shots.Trevor got >> see ALL-AREA | page 16

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL APRIL 2, 2014

15

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THE BUGLE/SENTINEL APRIL 2, 2014

Sports >> ALL-AREA, from page 15 better defensively as the season went on.”

Second team JONAH COBLE J o l i e t C e n t r a l senior was the leading scorer for the Steelmen posting 14.9 points and 4.0 rebounds per game.

“Jonah has been a three year varsity starter who has been a staple of the program and what we have been trying to accomplish,” said Central coach Jeff Corcoran. “He has been known as a scorer that can get to the basket and finish or knock down the three. He has grown as a player at both ends of the floor for us and been a leader for us in his time at Central.”

GAGE DAVIS Bolingbrook senior guard averaged 14 points, four rebounds and two assists for the Raiders. He has committed to Division-I IPFW.

“ G a g e provided an offensive punch for us throughout the year,” Brost said.

“He can score in bunches, shoots it with range and can finish around the rim. Gage has come a long way as a person, a student and as a player. I am fortunate to have coached him and wish him the best at IPFW.”

JALEN JACKSON One of four starting sophomores for Joliet Catholic A c a d e m y, J a c k s o n averaged 14.7 points, 2.1 assists and 2.3 rebounds per game.

He shot 48 percent from the field and 40 percent from three-point range, helping the Hilltoppers to a Class 3A Sweet 16 berth.

“Even though every team we play keys on Jalen he always comes through with a solid performance and that’s

remarkable for a sophomore,” said JCA coach Joe Gura.

JOE MOONEY The Notre Dame junior helped fill a leadership vacuum after the Dons lost their entire 201213 starting lineup to graduation, including Mooney’s older brother, Matt. But he did a lot more than just provide leadership.

Mooney emerged as one of the top players in the ESCC, averaging 18 points, four rebounds and three assists per game in his first varsity season.

“I had no one that started a varsity basketball game (going into this season),” Notre Dame coach Tom Les said. “Joe has kind of settled us in.

“He’s been the leader. He’s been the guy (whom) we’ve put the ball in his hands when it’s crunch time.”

LOGAN VELASQUEZ The Plainfield Central senior >> see ALL-AREA | page 17

Sports >> ALL-AREA, from page 16 posted 14.9 points and 10 rebounds per game.

He also set the school’s c a r e e r rebounding r e c o r d , finishing his career with 622. He also shot 54 percent from the floor on the year.

“He is just a basketball player and I’m proud of him,” Plainfield Central coach Steve Lamberti said. “The amazing thing about it was that it was really in just two years. His sophomore year he had 75 rebounds. He works so hard and is such a nice kid.

When it is all said and done, to be one of the best basketball players in school history, we are proud of him for that.”

Third team GROVER ANDERSON Do-it-all senior led Lockport in nearly every major category. He averaged 13.4 points per game, while leading the Porters in assists (92), steals (53) and blocked shots (17). He was also second on the team with 130 total rebounds.

“Grover Anderson did an outstanding job in accepting whatever role the team needed from him on each night. He was team player on both ends of the floor,” said Lockport coach Lawrence Thompson, Jr. “Individually he improved his offense to lead us in assists and scoring. He did that with, on most nights, guarding the opposing teams best perimeter

player. His attitude toward being the best teammate he could be meant a lot to our team this year.”

DEVIN BLAKE Sophomore standout for Downers N o r t h averaged 13 points and eight rebounds per game, while shooting 50 percent from the field.

“Devin is considered one of the top sophomores in the area,” Downers North coach Jim Thomas said. “He led our team in both points and rebounds.

His passion for the game will propel him this offseason for a great 2014/15 season.”

PAUL ENGO III T h e senior from Downers S o u t h averaged 14.8 points and 4.6 rebounds per game.

He also had 36 steals and made 47 three-pointers.

“Paul Engo III’s outside shooting and defense was huge for our team this season,” Downers South coach Kristopher Olson said. “He started every game and we barely ever took him off the court. Paul probably was our most improved player from the time he was a freshmen until his senior year. When Paul entered high school, he was on our freshmen B team and was not an outside threat. Paul’s all round game was very important to us this year.”

ANDREW PALUCKI The senior is a three-year

varsity player and two-year starter at Maine South who’s been part of three regional title teams.

Palucki does a little bit of everything for the Hawks, with averages of 12.2 points, 3.5 rebounds, 3.3 assists and a team-best 1.6 steals per game.

“He’s grown up a lot this year,” Maine South coach Tony Lavorato said. “He’s taken a leadership role and he’s really kind of the heart and soul of our team.”

DANNY SPINUZZA Spinuzza tallied 14.1 points and 3.7 rebounds per game for Downers South.

He contr ibuted 68 assists, 40 steals and 39 three-pointers.

“Danny Spinuzza was a threeyear varsity starter,” Downers South coach Kristopher Olson said.“Danny started every game and we only took him out when he was in foul trouble. Danny was our floor general and he set our offense up. Danny also made the big shot when necessary. He was our best ball handler and we had no back up for him.”

Fourth team JOHN CAMPBELL Campbell averaged 12.9 points per game and paced Lockport with 194 rebounds.

He was also second in steals (48) and blocks (13).

“John Campbell improved his overall game this year stepping up to lead our team in

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL APRIL 2, 2014 rebounding and second to Grover in scoring,” Thompson said. “John was the pulse of the Porters this season, he played with great passion and love for the game. John’s hard work and passionate play help us compete at a high level this season and I think that meant a lot to the Porters this season to know that every night he was going to give it all for Lockport.”

ANTONIO DYSON S e n i o r rejoined Joliet Central after moving back from Kentucky and led the Steelmen in rebounds with 7.4 per game, while being the No. 2 scorer on the team with 10.2 points per game.

“Antonio Dyson is a long, athletic wing player who helped us tremendously at both ends of the floor,” Corcoran said.

“He was able to block shots, rebound, run the floor, finish at the rim and defend players that are smaller than him. He is also a good shooter that can score in bunches.”

ROMEO MAGLIORE A senior, Magliore averaged nearly 12 points per contest for Niles West this year and led the club in rebounding (4.6 per game),

field-goal

17

percentage (53.4 percent), three-point shooting percentage (36.4) and steals (47).

“Every game this year, he’s been a great leader for us,” Niles West coach Bob Williams said. “He’s kind of one of those renaissance men. Whatever needs to be done he does it.”

COLLIN PELLETTIERI S e n i o r averages 11 points and 3.8 assists per game for Benet Academy along with hitting a team-high 83 three-point field goals.

“He has been our best threepoint shooter,” Heidkamp said.

“He has 83 made threes and that is a really high number and not easy to do. He adds another dimension, not only as a shooter, but as a point guard. His game has evolved and he handles pressure well and gets us into our sets. He has also improved defensively.”

MILES SNOWDEN Plainfield South senior averaged 12 points, seven rebounds and three blocks per game.

He had a school record with 20 rebounds in one game.

“Miles has a very high basketball IQ,” Plainfield South coach Tim Boe said.

“He is a great all-around player that can block shots, rebound, pass, and score in the paint.”

Mark Gregory and Mike Sandrolini contributed

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THE BUGLE/SENTINEL APRIL 2, 2014

News WILL COUNTY

Got cookies ... they need dough Operation Care Package of Joliet needs postage to send $25K cookies to soldiers overseas Jami Swearingen of Operation Care Package in Joliet was among the many volunteers unloading some 25,000 boxes of cookies for the troops overseas donated through the Girl Scouts Gift of Caring program.

Now the group needs postage to send them out to the troops.

Call Debbie Smothers at (815) 723-6960, or email her at Proudarmysis4@sbcglobal.net.

>> our house, from page 7 the moment you walk into the committee hearing ‌ meaning, there is no time to prepare a response to their comments or negotiate. But if that’s the case,

that usually means that they were never going to compromise anyway.

Not all bills that land in committee make it out. However, the committee process allows for a unique exchange of ideas,

allows for legislation to transform, to evolve into a better concept.

And, if your bill does actually make it out of committee and is favorably reported to the House floor, it might eventually become a great addition to Illinois law.

Business & Real Estate

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL APRIL 2, 2014

come to order

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Organize your bedroom for a good night’s sleep

If your bedroom is anything but restful, consider spending some time de-cluttering Is your bedroom you don’t or won’t wear. calm and serene, a Be realistic. place where you can Do you keep passing over relax and get a restful a particular shirt or pair night’s sleep? of pants because another Or, is it a chaotic one is more comfortable place filled with or fits better? clutter, clothes, papers If so, move it on to come to order a new home – either and the like? sue becker elsewhere in your home If your bedroom is or to a charity. anything but restful, consider Once you’ve moved out what spending some time de-cluttering you don’t wear, there will be and organizing it so it becomes more room to put away the a sanctuary to replenish your clothes that previously sat in mind and soul. piles because there was no place In addition, organizing your to put them. bedroom will make getting dressed each day a simple Remove the clutter endeavor rather than a frantic hunt for matching shoes.

It’s hard to sleep when piles of laundry, paper and other assorted Pare down your clothing clutter is “staring” at you.

Go through your closet, I wonder how many dresser and other piles of people who suffer from sleep clothing and pare down what disturbances would get a more

restful sleep simply by removing these stress-inducing items.

An easy solution is to stop yourself from bringing anything into your bedroom unless you put it away right away.

In addition, if it doesn’t support the activities you do in your bedroom (sleep, read, get dressed, insert your own fun activity here) it shouldn’t be in there.

Find another place to store such items – your sleep and your health are too important to ignore this guideline.

Be creative with storage Consider vertical storage (e.g., hooks on the wall) and underbed storage (for out of season clothes, seldom worn shoes, extra bedding) for items that won’t fit anywhere else.

Maybe a nightstand, lingerie cabinet or bookcase can give you the functional storage you need without taking up much space.

If your bedroom is anything but restful, consider spending some time de-cluttering and organizing it so it becomes a sanctuary to replenish your mind and soul.

Sustain the serenity Once you’ve turned your muddled mess into a serene sanctuary, you’ll want to be sure to keep it that way.

Get a hamper - and use it! Be sure clothes are coming out (i.e., getting laundered) at a faster rate than they’re going in.

Make your bed every morning – this simple two-minute task will quickly transform the look and feel of your room.

When you bring in your clean laundry, put it away right away – when your closet and dresser are pared down, it should take no more than five minutes to quickly and easily put things

away. Since your bedroom is the first thing you see in the morning and the last thing you see at night, be sure to tidy it up frequently so you can start and end your day calm and relaxed.

Pleasant dreams!

Sue Becker is a Certified Professional Organizer in Chronic Disorganization who helps individuals and businesses discover the simplicity, harmony, and freedom of being organized and productive.

She also speaks to companies and organizations about how to get organized and make the most of their time. Sue can be reached at www.PilesToSmiles.com or 630-7241111.

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THE BUGLE/SENTINEL APRIL 2, 2014

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL APRIL 2, 2014

LEGAL SHERIFF’S SALE

LEGAL SHERIFF’S SALE

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE 12TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT WILL COUNTY - JOLIET, ILLINOIS TCF NATIONAL BANK Vs. ANDREW GRIFFARD A/K/A ANDREW N. GRIFFARD; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS. 14CH 0187 NOTICE BY PUBLICATION NOTICE IS GIVEN TO YOU: ANDREW GRIFFARD A/K/A ANDREW N. GRIFFARD, AND UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS That this case has been commenced in this Court against you and other defendants, praying for the foreclosure of a certain Mortgage conveying the premises described as follows, to-wit: LOT 44, EXCEPT THE WEST 32.00 FEET, AND ALL OF LOT 45, IN LINCOLN CREST, A SUBDIVISION OF PART OF THE NORTHWEST 1/4 OF THE NORTHWEST 1/4 OF SECTION 5, TOWNSHIP 35 NORTH, RANGE 10, EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED AUGUST 4, 1928, IN PLAT BOOK 22, PAGE 22, AS DOCUMENT NO. 421027, IN WILL COUNTY, ILLINOIS. Improved with: SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENCE Commonly known as: 1425 BOSTON AVENUE, JOLIET, IL 60435 Permanent Index No.: 30-07-05-100033-0000 and which said Mortgage was made by: ANDREW GRIFFARD A/K/A ANDREW N. GRIFFARD the Mortgagor(s), to TCF NATIONAL BANK, as Mortgagee, and recorded in the Office of the Recorder of Deeds of Will County, Illinois, on March 7, 2011 as Document No. R2011024438; and for other relief; that summons was duly issued out of said Court against you as provided by law and that the said suit is now pending.

YOU MAY STILL BE ABLE TO SAVE YOUR HOME. DO NOT IGNORE THIS DOCUMENT. By order of the Chief Judge of the Circuit Court of the

Twelfth Judicial Circuit, this case is set for Mandatory Mediation on April 3, 2014 at 1:00 p.m. at the Will County Court Annex-3rd Floor (Arbitration Center), 57 N. Ottawa St., Joliet, Illinois.

A lender representative will be present along with a court appointed mediator to discuss options that you may have and to pre-screen you for a potential mortgage modification.

YOU MUST APPEAR ON THE MEDIATION DATE GIVEN OR YOUR RIGHT TO MEDIATION WILL TERMINATE. NOW, THEREFORE, UNLESS YOU file your answer or otherwise file your appearance in this case in the Office of the Clerk of this Court, Pamela McGuire Will County Clerk 57 N. Ottawa Street Joliet, IL 60432 on or before May 2, 2014, A DEFAULT MAY BE ENTERED AGAINST YOU AT ANY TIME AFTER THAT DAY AND A JUDGMENT MAY BE ENTERED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE PRAYER OF SAID COMPLAINT. David T. Cohen & Associates, Ltd., 10729 W. 159th Street, Orland Park, IL 60467 (708) 460-7711 NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act you are advised that this law firm is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose.

I599508 Published 4/2, 4/9, 4/16

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THE BUGLE/SENTINEL APRIL 2, 2014

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL APRIL 2, 2014

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THE BUGLE/SENTINEL APRIL 2, 2014